NEW DELHI: India's oldest cricketer and the second to score a century on Test debut, Roshan Harshadal Shodhan, popularly known as Deepak Shodhan passed away aged 87 early Monday morning. Shodhan took his last breath at his residence in Ahmedabad. The funeral is scheduled for 11 am on Monday.

Earlier this year in February, Shodhan was diagnosed with lung cancer.

Ideally a left-handed batsman who could bowl left-arm pace as well, Shodhan made his debut at the age of 25. He played three Tests in which he scored 180 runs at an average of 60.33 which is the highest by an Indian cricketer in a completed career in the longer format. His century came against Pakistan against Eden Gardens during the tour of 1952.

Walking in at No. 8, Shodhan played an attractive innings of 110, handing India a 140-run lead, which allowed them to escape with a draw. Ever since, 13 more Indian cricketers have achieved the laurel, with Rohit Sharma being the latest with his century against West Indies in 2013.

Despite a promising start, Shodhan could only manage two more Tests. However, he remained a prominent figure for Gujarat in Ranji trophy. After playing 30 Tests, he switched to Baroda and played another 13 before announcing his retirement in 1961. He had scored 1235 runs (33.37) and picked up 59 wickets (30.32).

Source:-TOI

Write Your Valuable Opinion

Your Post Will Be Reviewed By Our Quality Team And Then Will Get Published